In the twenty-first century, it is hard to think that sexual discrimination could still be an issue in any industry. Unfortunately, workplace discrimination due to gender remains alive and well in many sectors of the job market.
From unequal pay between men and women for doing the same job to problematizing maternity leave requests, employers continue to discriminate against their female employees in several ways.
Title VII
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 states that employees and job applicants are protected from sex discrimination in the workplace. This type of discrimination includes failure to promote, unfair treatment, earning lower wages, being given less demanding tasks or assignments than those given to others with similar qualifications, and more.
Unfortunately, many people still face gender discrimination in the workplace today. In fact, 42% of working women in the U.S. have experienced gender discrimination at work – compared with 35% of men.
Employers may be liable for workplace discrimination when a manager or supervisor does it. Unfortunately, 72% of people who have dealt with sexual discrimination at work don’t report it, mainly out of fear of retaliation.
No one should ever have to face unfair treatment due to their gender or sexual orientation while trying to do their job. We all have the right to an inclusive workplace where everyone feels safe and respected regardless of gender, identity or orientation.
Employers should ensure that policies are in place to protect employees from any form of discrimination. It is also important to know your rights as an employee and understand what constitutes workplace discrimination so you can take action if necessary.
